Despite scientific and technical advancements in all fields, we still haven’t been able to coin a device that can measure the depth, height, weight and length of ‘craziness’ for cricket in India and elsewhere. You doubt? We bet you don’t!

Bigger the better: Enjoy the match on big screens

If you are not the type of remain glued to the television set, here are some other options:

Craft show

Hands of India, an exhibition that opens at 11 am on Saturday at Punjab Kala Bhawan-16 promises to bring some handlooms and furnishings. “We have some unique clay toys from West Bengal and special craft mats,” offers Malyata Goverdhan, the person running the show.

(On till April 10)

Tickle your taste buds

Serving the palates of ‘golgappa’ connoisseurs for the last 80 years, Shri Ram Chat Bhandar known for serving ‘saat pani golgappas’ are now available in Sector 22. “After getting a thumping response from our Sector 34 outlet, we decided to move ahead and come up with this outlet,” says Rakesh Kumar, the man behind the venture.

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Plan well, drive slowly but party hard! And while you’re at it, partying in pocket money need not come as hard. There might not be any free lunches in the world, but there are a lot of free entries in the clubs!

“Yes, we do try and make it accessible to the young college-going crowd. On normal days, couples and girls can walk in free as there are no entry charges,” shares Amit Dhang, lounge manager, TAO. He adds, “On other days, there is some entry fee, which varies according to the night we are holding, or the event scheduled.” There may or may not be a conscious decision to usher in the young and the restless but increase in footfalls invariably translates onto the college-going youngsters.

“We’ve almost always had this policy where on regular nights couple entries are free and stag boys are not allowed. Otherwise, various offers are on. For instance, right now we have this World Cup offer, in which a person pays Rs 500 and enjoys unlimited drinks and snacks,” shares Mannika of Black Magic. She adds, “On other days, charges depend on the kind of night going on or on the promoter.

Apart from the efforts to appeal to the young, incentives for couples are aplenty. Shares Poojari, in-charge, S-Lounge, “Almost any club’s rules are framed in such a way as to encourage couples and not to let the stags make their way through.” Lest a ruckus ensues! At their lounge, like with most others, couples walk in free and boy stags are just not allowed. He adds, “We are a little flexible about the girl stags. For example, if there are four to five couples walking in and along with them we have two girls, then they are let in.”

At Score, bar-cum-lounge and nightclub, being a stag comes at double the price and second entry is what fetches the brownie points. Shares Raj Sharma, captain, “For the first time, we charge girls and couples Rs 1,000 each and then we send them a message and next time onwards they walk in free. But first you have to show the SMS to us.” As for the boys, they pay Rs 2,000 but included in the amount is drinks and food worth Rs 1,000. Like we said, having a good time need not be taxing and today’s partying need not affect tomorrow’s planning, least the finances!

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How about some bamboo shirts or a lenhga in natural fabrics in your summer wardrobe? That is what designer Amit Kumar Kashyap has brought to Chandigarh to be part of India International Bride Week that opens on Saturday at Shivalikview-17.

"This show is all about eco-friendly fabrics and hand-woven style," shares Kashyap, the maker of the brand Deiva.

As models showcased his beautiful ensembles, Kashyap shared, "Indian weddings are huge. Now families want to dress on the same theme, that is where the real challenge for a designer lies, to create different styles yet maintain that harmony."

Kashyap's collection has hand-woven brocade from Benaras, summary nets and borders from colourful Rajasthan. Embroidered belts that drape over a sari and dresses so heavily accessorised that you give a slip to jewellery mark Kashyap's new collection.

The icing on the cake, the dresses don't cost a bomb. "Mine is an endeavour to give design in pocket friendly prices," says Kashyap. The lenhgas start from Rs 15,000.

For men, Kashyap has designed special bamboo shirts and trousers. "We have woven bamboo and dyed it in an array of colours some subdued some bright to create comfortable wear," shares Kashyap. The collection is available at the exhibition.

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It's the end of your beauty woes -- a virtual make-up mirror can give you a full make-over in seconds, lets you test hundreds of different products in minutes and does away with the need for make-up remover afterwards.

Created by Japanese beauty brand Shiseido, the first of its kind simulator in Europe allows users to virtually apply make-up to eyes, lips and cheeks.

A camera on the device captures your face and works out where your eyes, nose and mouth are. Using the touch-sensitive screen, you can choose from more than 50 different eye colours, around the same number of lip colours, and 12 blushers, bronzers and cheek tints.

You can whizz through a huge array of shades in a matter of moments, see how products change with more intensive application, and experiment with far more drastic looks than you might normally dare to.

The image you see is a perfect mirror image. If you squint to take a closer look at the eye shadow you just 'applied', you'll see it on the screen; turn your head slightly to see how that blusher looks and your mirror image will do likewise.

Once you find a look you like, you can take a still image. The machine can store a few of these, giving you an opportunity to compare different looks. — IANS

They say that money does not buy happiness, but a new study involving more than 25,000 people has suggested that beauty can buy both money and happiness.

Economists at the University of Texas-Austin found that beautiful people are generally happier than the plain Jane or even ugly Joe. And it’s the economic benefit that results from beauty that accounts for at least half of that extra happiness. —ANI

If you want to savour the best of cuisine in a homely ambience, along with entertainment for the kids and a plethora of shopping options… the good old Sarabha Nagar market in Ludhiana is the place to be.

Despite many new shopping malls, markets and eating joints springing up in the city, the charm of this market refuses to die. One can spot the young and the old alike at various food joints, including the famous Kipps store, during lunch hours. There is an array of feminine knick-knacks at Selection Point and a wide range of gifts as well as toys available at the Sethi Gift Store.

The evenings here have a typical romantic air about them. It’s the time when youngsters are out in the best of their attires, some in dating groups while others sitting on the sides enjoying the visual treat. Burgers, golgappas  and ice creams are a hit with them. For the style seekers, ‘Javes’ is a store that offers elegant ethnic collection for doing up the interiors of your house. The kids can have a gala time with motorcycle rides, merry-go-rounds etc. Then there are the tattoo-makers and henna-appliers that complete the entertainment package. The market is packed on various festival days.

And it seems to be an ideal place for match-making. “This is our favourite joint on special days. And when we feel low in life, this is what perks us up,” says Priyanka, a student. Another student, Tanya, adds: “I feel there is romance in the air here. There is something to suit every pocket here.”

So, Sarabha Nagar market is surely the place to spend a ‘beautiful day’.

Every other day we wake up to the launch of a new car model, a sleeker version of the first. Every other model has a better package than the previous one and any day more priced than before. We are talking of the red bird Nissan 370Z (known as Fairlady Z in Japan).

Compared to the 350Z, 370Z has a wheelbase 4 in (100 mm) shorter at 100.4 in (2, 550 mm) and an overall length 2.7 in (69 mm) shorter at 167.1 in (4, 240 mm). Thanks to the marketing techniques, now you don't have to look up the Internet for smaller details.

Falling in the same line, Nissan India has launched a marketing campaign for its widely acclaimed iconic Sports Car-370Z in Northern India. Through this initiative, the car will be displayed across its dealerships in the North for car enthusiasts to have the 'touch and feel' effect of this 'everyday sports car'.

Parked elegantly at Bhagat Nissan, Chandigarh, the car is sensational. Every bit entices. Even if you are not an automobile expert, you would know it from the first look that the car is designed for excellence. A perfect blend of sharp styling and design gives it a high-performance. The 370Z with its unique and beneficial features aims to provide people with an uplifting feeling, as they are able to spend and enjoyable time riding in the car, even if it is only for a short while.

From design to speed, which is something you would be curious to know-370Z's new seven-speed automatic is designed to offer quick, manual-like shifting when operated in manual mode with a target time of 0.5 seconds between shifts. The new seven-speed's wide gear ratios offer improved fuel efficiency, while the Adaptive Shift Control is designed to adjust to the driver's driving style.

Thumbs up to security to with standard four-wheel vented disc brake system includes Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) as well as Brake Assist (BA). For marketting strategy, Raj Naresh Singh, managing director of Bhagat Nissan says, "Across the World, Nissan 370Z has a huge fan following for its stunning performance and style. Its important to get up close and personal with this Super Sports Car."

(Verma is a Delhi-based auto expert.)

As the trend of sexting becomes increasingly common, teenagers are exchanging naked photos of themselves as a form of "insurance" to prevent their partners forwarding on saucy images.

According to a report, University of NSW researcher Nina Funnell has spoken to hundreds of young people aged between 15 and 18 about their sexting habits for a book she is writing and found sexting is an accepted part of adolescent dating culture.

The ongoing two-year research project into sexting - sending sexually explicit messages, photos or videos via text message - has revealed the adolescents are aware that filming their sexual poses and behaviour is risky.

"The common idea is that young people are doing this as a response to pressure or they're brainwashed by popular culture," Funnell said."Young people I speak to don't say this. What I hear is it's about flirtation, pleasure and exploring their sexuality."

Funnell said that many students continued to "sext" even after finding out they risked criminal prosecution. Deakin University psychology Professor Marita McCabe said teenagers have always "pushed the barriers" exploring their sexuality, now they're using technology. "We would need to be careful about criminalising something that is consensual,” he said. — ANI

Bollywood actors are reinventing themselves in their releases this year. We take a look at upcoming films in which actors will look different from what they have in the past.

Shah Rukh Khan in Don 2: Shah Rukh Khan has let his hair grow wild for a portion of the sequel, when his character spends time in jail. His hair is a long and broad mess of knotty little braids. He has sleek hair for the rest of the film.

Ranbir Kapoor in Barfee: His character has a verbal impediment and cannot speak properly. His name is actually Murphy but he pronounces it as '"Barfee" because of his speech problem. He will sport a French beard and has several different looks in the film as his character will age from twenty to fifty.

Priyanka Chopra and Shahid Kapoor in Kunal Kohli's next: Priyanka Chopra has three different looks in the movie. After playing twelve different characters in What's Your Raashee? and having seven different looks in Saat Khoon Maaf, it seems that she cannot play singular characters. Shahid will also age in the movie as their romance spans a few decades.

Shahid Kapur in Mausam: The pretty boy is desperate to shed his boy-next-door image as he is thirty-years-old! He plays an air-force pilot in his father Pankaj's directorial debut and sports a moustache in the movie. His hair is also sleekly combed with a side-parting. He will be seen in uniform and his character ages ten years during the course of the film.

Ranbir Kapoor in Rock Star: The versatile young actor plays a rock star by the name of Jordan in Imtiaz Ali's film. Naturally, he has long, braided hair a la Johnny Depp look in The Pirates of the Caribbean movies. Also expect some tattoos. We are sure he will look smashing and have the girls swooning over him.

Arjun Rampal in Ra.One: The hunky and classically handsome actor has shaved off his famous tresses for the film and is completely bald in the movie. He plays the baddie in the mega-budget movie and the film is named after him.

Aamir Khan in Reema Kagti's next: Aamir Khan looks hotter and smarter with each passing year. The perfectionist has reinvented himself yet again. In the film he plays a cop and has grown a handle-bar moustache and is wearing balis in his ears. Very rustic and simply hot!

Uncle Ranbir is happy

Ranbir Kapoor is utterly delighted on becoming an uncle. His sister Riddhima's newborn is called Samara. He gifted his niece an insurance policy. To share his joy, he had a huge party for his family, friends, and staff members. Sweet!

Shahid, Priyanka back again?

Shahid Kapur and Priyanka Chopra cannot get rid of each other! They are trying their luck at becoming an item again and want to be really discreet. They are suspicious that their "friends" or building people are giving away information about them.

Anurag gets engaged

Anurag Kashyap has got engaged to his live-in girlfriend, actress Kalki Koechlin. Many congratulations to the lovely couple!

Payment problem

Karan Johar is shooting for the final episode of Koffee with Karan but Salman Khan will not occupy his black leather couch. KJo does not want to pay him to appear on his show because all the other esteemed actors in Bollywood and personalities from around the world have appeared for free. KJo does not mind donating to Being Human but not on the condition that Salman should appear on his show.

Diwali dhamaka for Ajay

Ajay Devgn has had three consecutive Diwali releases: Golmaal Returns, All The Best, and Golmaal 3. This year, however, his home production titled Bol Bachchan directed by Rohit Shetty starts only in August and he will miss the Diwali date. Abhishek Bachchan also stars in the film.

Smoke screen ?

Rana Daggubatti and Bipasha Basu do not want to attract media attention to their budding friendship-cum-relationship. They avoid each other like the plague at media events and promotions.

Darsheel in Deepa Mehta's film

Fifteen-year-old Darsheel Safary has been signed on to play the young Saleem Sinai in Deepa Mehta's adaptation of Salman Rushdie's Midnight's Children. She cast him because he slipped into the character effortlessly.

ARIES: Complete errands, socialise and complete pending paper work. This is a turning point in personal relationships. Push hard for the good results that you are capable of achieving. Health problems are not a worry. Hold your temper. Tarot message: This is not a bad time to open up new doors.
Lucky colour: Yellow.
Magic number: 31

TAURUS: The King of Wands reveals best moments to relax and socialise. Be sure to grasp a job opportunity. Be careful when looking at electronic equipments or computers. Motivation is likely to wane leaving you feeling frustrated and angry. Tarot message: Avoid gossip sessions at work place.
Lucky colour: Fuchsia.
Magic number: 64

GEMINI: Discussions with those in close proximity increase but you will instinctively know when to talk. Defer making fresh investments. Financial transaction comes to the fore after 1 pm. Domestic interests move at an easy pace. Tarot message: You can stabilise your financial situation if you make property investments.Lucky colour: Burgundy. Magic number: 42.

CANCER: Catching up on jobs you have been putting off for a while seems a wise idea. Time to try meditation and yoga. You will shine in surroundings unfamiliar to you. Romance is unexciting. Unhealthy habits will be regretted.
Tarot message: Over optimism could lead to mistakes.
Lucky colour: Beige.
Magic number: 59.

LEO: Do not miss the opportunity to finish all the business weighing on your mind and spirit. New partnerships can be formed. Try not to nag people about minor issues. Friends will be helpful. Sportsmen will do well.
Tarot message: Do not overspend just to impress others.
Lucky colour: Peach.
Magic number: 60.

VIRGO: Be positive in your approach. Home entertainment should go rather well. Women: Keep your stakes low while playing cards. Be wary of situations where it could be easy to make a mistake in haste.
Tarot message: You will get the help you need if you ask for it.
Lucky colour: Purple.
Magic number: 57.

LIBRA: Wherever you go and whatever you do, the focus of everyone's attention will be you. Check your car before you set out. Relatives will be sensitive and difficult. Old patients: An improvement in health is indicated. Focus on personal affairs.
Tarot message: Everything will get sorted out on its own.
Lucky colour: Forest green.
Magic number: 52.

SCORPIO: Do not get involved in any land deal. A secret love affair will bring some added pleasure. Make your boss aware of all the hard work you have been putting in. Enjoy getting noticed and acknowledged.
Tarot message: You need to be creative to retain your grip over business.
Lucky colour: Pink.
Magic number: 63.

SAGITTARIUS: Communicate boldly with a creative expression. Patronage from powerful individuals can validate your efforts. Share problems with loved ones. Get on with minor repair jobs at home. Over eating, drinking, over anything will be regretted. Do not risk your savings. Tarot message: Leave things open ended for best results. Lucky colour: Deep red. Magic number: 40.

CAPRICORN: A hazardous day. Keep your mind on the job throughout the day. Do not be tempted to daydream once your working week is done. Get to the bank before it closes. Romance could be an anticlimax. Be tactful while criticising.
Tarot message: Health of an elderly member at home will need looking after. Lucky colour: Peach.
Magic number: 32

AQUARIUS: Old acquaintances are likely to pop up. No need to make any important move today. In the office, more efforts may be expected from you. Keep lawbreakers at bay. Take care of your stomach.
Tarot message: Feel good about yourself & prepare yourself for a mental battle.
Lucky colour: Orange.
Magic number: 28.

PISCES: A call or a visit from a relative brings an opportunity to catch up on recent family happenings. Entrepreneurs must try for the loan. Past differences could easily cause quarrels. A somewhat easier day for students. Regular employment affairs will run smooth. Tarot message: You may encounter some difficulties regarding finances. Lucky colour: Pink. Magic number: 30

Celluloid star Ajay Devgn, birth name-Vishal (April 2, 1967) shares his birthday with you. Who can forget his performance in Golmaal Returns, U Me Aur Hum, London Dreams, Benaam, Ganga Jal and Mai aisa hi hoon? He made his debut with Phool Aur Kaante in year 1991 and won Filmfare Best Debut Award. 2011-12 will establish him as stuntman like father Veeru Devgn.